Things to do in Istanbul
Istanbul is the city where you take a ferry from Europe to Asia for a glass of tea, and where the call to prayer, gulls and bazaar bustle mix over the Bosphorus.
Istanbul
The skyline of the old city from the water. Photo: Engin Yapici / Unsplash
Istanbul: a city between two continents
Istanbul lies on both sides of the Bosphorus strait and is the only great city in the world that spans two continents. It was the capital of both the Byzantine and the Ottoman empires, and you see it in the old quarter of Sultanahmet, where Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace stand almost side by side.
But Istanbul is also a modern city of rooftop bars, galleries and new restaurants, especially in Karaköy and Beyoğlu and in Kadıköy on the Asian side. It is enough for many city breaks.
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. To add a beach, domestic flights go to Antalya.
Hagia Sophia
Photo: Raimond Klavins / Unsplash
The best things to do in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque: two of the most famous buildings in the world, facing each other. Both are mosques, so cover shoulders and knees.
Topkapı Palace: the palace of the sultans, with the harem and views over the Bosphorus.
The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar: get lost among lamps, rugs and spices, and haggle with a smile.
The Basilica Cistern: the old underground reservoir, its columns lit in soft light.
A Bosphorus ferry: the easiest and cheapest way to see the city from the water.
Galata Tower and Karaköy: views over the old city, with cafés and restaurants in the streets around.
Kadıköy: the Asian side, with markets, food and a more local Istanbul.
Galata
Photo: Desert Morocco Adventure / Unsplash
Where to stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet: walking distance to the big sights, but quiet at night.
Sirkeci and Eminönü: between the old city and the ferries.
Karaköy and Beyoğlu: restaurants, bars and nightlife.
Along the Bosphorus: luxury hotels with views over the water.
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Four Seasons at the Bosphorus
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Four Seasons at the Bosphorus: a palace by the water
A luxury hotel in an old palace right on the Bosphorus, with a terrace at the water's edge. The ships glide past while you have breakfast.
Book your city break: See rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
Sirkeci Mansion: right between the sights
A popular hotel in Sirkeci, with breakfast included and a short walk to Hagia Sophia, the bazaars and the ferries.
Book your city break: See rooms at Sirkeci Mansion
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
Spring and autumn are best, especially April, May, September and October. Summer is hot and busy, and winter can be cold and wet but quieter. Check the current entry rules for Turkey before you travel.
Frequently asked questions about Istanbul
Where is the best area to stay in Istanbul?
Sultanahmet is best if you want to walk to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı. Karaköy and Beyoğlu suit those who want restaurants and nightlife, and the hotels along the Bosphorus have views over the water.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
Three to four days is enough for the main sights, the bazaars, a ferry trip and an evening on the Asian side.
What should I wear to visit mosques in Istanbul?
Cover your shoulders and knees, and women should cover their hair. Shoes come off before you go in. Many mosques lend scarves at the entrance.
How do you get around Istanbul?
Trams, the metro and ferries cover most of the city. A rechargeable travel card works on all public transport, and the Bosphorus ferries are an experience in themselves.
When is the best time to go to Istanbul?
April, May, September and October bring pleasant weather for walking and fewer visitors than summer.